The cargo handling industry increasingly explores cloud-based, collaborative data sharing platforms to provide real-time visibility and connectivity required to improve efficiency and productivity. This is evident from a study conducted by Navis and XVELA, both part of Cargotec's business area Kalmar, and major players within terminal operating systems (TOS) and digital collaboration platforms respectively.

The study, entitled "Working as One," is based on a survey of 250 shipping industry executives and professionals from terminals, ocean carriers, shippers, logistics providers, and other members of the global container supply chain. The report examines how different players can improve their operational processes with coordination and synchronisation, and by working together with a common set of shared data.

"Traditionally the ocean shipping industry has been comprised of isolated processes," says Andy Barrons, Chief Strategy Officer, Navis. "Planning processes across the container flow take place in silos, with little standardisation or real-time information exchange, and few opportunities for collaboration."

"However, many industry executives are realising that there is an immense value to be gained from a more connected, transparent and collaborative approach. With this, the industry idea of tapping into a larger ecosystem of shared data appears to be within reach."

Main survey findings include:

there is a great industry need to operate with a common set of data

adoption of new technologies is crucial to enabling real-time collaboration

substantial improvement in operational performance is expected once real-time collaboration is achieved.

With a growing demand for more information, collaborative platforms like XVELA will provide greater transparency into operational processes and reduce operational waste. The range of expected benefits noted by respondents includes:

better customer service

more precise planning for capacity, stowage, and other marine processes

earlier awareness of disruptions and more time to execute contingency plans

improved on-time performance and operational/situational awareness

enhanced coordination among port stakeholders

better berth planning and utilisation

better intermodal connectivity and reliability

better resource allocation.

The survey has been released today at the TOC Europe Conference in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where Kalmar, Navis and XVELA are present. The full survey can be downloaded at: http://navis.com/workingasone.

Cargotec (Nasdaq Helsinki: CGCBV) enables smarter cargo flow for a better everyday with its leading cargo handling solutions and services. Cargotec's business areas Kalmar, Hiab and MacGregor are pioneers in their fields. Through their unique position in ports, at sea and on roads, they optimise global cargo flows and create sustainable customer value. Cargotec's sales in 2017 totalled approximately EUR 3.2 billion and it employs over 11,000 people. www.cargotec.com